MAPLE RIDGE– New Democrat MLAs Lisa Beare and Bob D’Eith say local governments will receive funding that will help them implement new provincial legislation to build more homes for people faster.

“Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows are growing, and we know that having more available housing is a priority for everyone,” said Lisa Beare, MLA for Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows. “That’s why our government is helping municipalities with funds to help with the transition to new regulations.”

The City of Maple Ridge is receiving $583,359, while the Pitt Meadows will receive $241,303.

“Last year we introduced new housing regulations to help build more housing, faster in B.C.,” said Bob D’Eith, MLA for Maple Ridge-Mission. “Now, we’re making sure communities across the province are supported in making the changes they need to put the new regulations into place.”

In response to the new provincial housing legislation passed in 2023, the New Democratic government is providing $51 million to 188 local governments to help them meet the new requirements.

This money will be utilized by local governments to improve planning, development and reporting processes, hire new staff and consultants and help governing bodies become more efficient at approving housing. Smaller municipalities will especially benefit from this funding as they have fewer resources to make changes.

This funding is part of a historic $19 billion housing investment by the provincial government. Since 2017, more than 77,000 homes have been delivered or are underway across B.C.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024HOUS0006-000051